Timex has just launched what appears to be one of the most sophisticated training watches currently available. We have one incoming for a hands-on review so we’ll have a lot more to share soon, but here’s what we know so far:
- Integrated GPS.
- Calculates pace, speed, and distance in real-time.
- Records up to 100 location waypoints and remembers up to 50 custom routes.
- Customizable display shows up to four data windows.
- 20-workout memory with dated summary records up to 1,000 laps of information.
- Chronograph with interval and countdown timers measures performance.
- Records elapsed time, calories burned, and performance data for each lap.
- Performance pacer helps meet finish-time goals.
- Hands-free option automatically starts and stops data capture functions.
- Performance and route data downloads to online training software powered by TrainingPeaks.
- Advanced desktop software manages users’ settings for easy customization.
- Battery recharges when connected to USB port or AC adaptor.
- Compatible with Windows XP or newer, and Mac OS X 10.4 or newer.
- Compatible with Timex heart rate and bike sensors using ANT+.
- Compatible with third-party bike power sensors using ANT+.
- Compatible with Timex digital 2.4 chest sensor heart rate monitor.
In other words, this looks like it comes pretty close to being the ultimate piece of digital training equipment for serious athletes. But what we want to know is how easy is it to use (all this functionality is superfluous if you can’t remember how to use it), and how good and robust is the software (we’ve had trouble with Timex software on Mac in the past). We have one of these instruments on its way from Timex Ironman, so we’ll find out soon enough and report back.
Jair Rescalvo
I had a hard time setting up my watch at the begining on my mac computer, due to the fact I had no idea why my watch was no comunicating with it. after some minutes later I realized there was a release framework that needed to be installed on my mac for the GPS. After that it worked!. Now I just have a few questions about some functionallity on it. but I can tell GPS works fine, it measures distances very well so far. GPS gets my location slowly, I dont know if its just beause Im in Mexico City, or just due to the fact rainy weather. Information is very well detailed on my watch. sensors measure my Hear Rate I guees pretty well, I compare it with another one, and seems to be the same. I love it!